The Irish in Britain, including those of Irish descent, make up a significant part of the UK population. Here, you will find news, entertainment, events, sports and features from the local Irish Post newspaper.

By Elaine Sheridan

All those that go by the name Patrick or Patricia are being urged to help break a world record while at the same time raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital in the process.

Renowned Irish chef Paul Rankin is one of the people behind the ‘Proud 2 B Pat’ campaign which aims to set a world record for the most people of the same name in the same place at the same time.

And to maximise the chances of success the challenge takes place on Sunday when thousands of people descend upon Trafalgar Square to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

The campaign comes on the back of the fact that Irwin’s bakers — makers of the famous Rankin selection of Irish breads — spotted that the name Patrick is just one generation away from extinction and fast heading out of the top 300 baby names.

And now they want to ensure that the one-time popular name is resurrected back into society.

A special ‘Paddy Field’ is to be set up in Trafalgar Square where all those Patricks and Patricias can congregate on the day to help set the mammoth record.

Patrick Murphy of Irwin’s Bakery is confident that the name will be put firmly back on the map — appropriately over St. Patrick’s weekend.

He said: “If all Patricks — real as well as Plastic Paddies — show solidarity, we can set an amazing record and raise all-important funds to support the vital and inspiring work being carried out at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

“We believe that not just Irish people will be spurred into action on this campaign but also English, Scottish and Welsh citizens who are already strong supporters of Irish culture and heritage.”

The current record in that category stands at 1,096 Moham-meds and this time organisers are aiming for at least 1,100 Patricks and Patricias to break that record.

Sympathetic non-Patricks can also help out by making the ultimate gesture by getting sponsored to change their name by deed poll for the big day.

Michael Murphy (now Pat-rick) and Paul Rankin have led the way on this — both having changed their names to Patrick in preparation for the massive ‘Paddy Poll’.

The record attempt will take place from 12.30pm to 3pm on March 16 at Trafalgar Square.

All funds raised through the campaign — whether donated online or contributed on the day — will go to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

You can register your support for the campaign and pledge a donation online at www.proud2bpat.com.